N.C. Gen. Stat. § 143B-472.126

There is hereby created in the Department of Commerce a division to be known as the Rural Economic Development Division. The Secretary shall appoint an Assistant Secretary to administer this Division, who shall be subject to the direction and supervision of the Secretary. The Assistant Secretary, subject to the approval of the Secretary, shall select a professional staff of qualified and competent employees to assist in the administration of the duties and responsibilities prescribed in this Part.